Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
conditional on merit
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "conditional on merit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where decisions, benefits, or opportunities are based on an individual's qualifications or performance rather than other factors. Example: "The scholarship will be awarded conditional on merit, ensuring that only the most deserving students receive financial support."
✓ Grammatically correct
Academia
Formal & Business
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
So the questions that arise are: conditional on being considered high-enough risk to merit ferret studies, what additional value do the ferret studies add?
Science
Promotion on merit.
News & Media
"He really deserves this graduation on merit.
News & Media
"It was solely based on merit".
News & Media
He favors a system based on merit.
News & Media
But we are here on merit".
News & Media
He's in the side on merit".
News & Media
The decision was taken on "merit" alone.
News & Media
We are through on merit.
News & Media
Awarded to Frances Abbott, on merit.
News & Media
He is there on merit.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "conditional on merit" when emphasizing that outcomes or opportunities are awarded based on demonstrated ability or qualification, ensuring fairness and transparency.
Common error
Avoid assuming "merit" is solely based on academic achievement. Consider a broader definition that includes practical skills, experience, and personal qualities relevant to the context.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "conditional on merit" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that a particular outcome, opportunity, or decision is dependent upon an individual's qualifications, skills, or achievements. This is supported by Ludwig's analysis of the examples, showing usage across diverse contexts.
Frequent in
News & Media
0%
Academia
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "conditional on merit" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express that an outcome depends on someone's qualifications or achievements. According to Ludwig, the phrase can be used in different contexts. While there are several alternative expressions such as "based on qualifications" or "merit-based", the choice depends on the specific context and nuance desired. The usage of "conditional on merit" is generally considered neutral to formal, making it suitable for professional and academic settings.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
merit-based
A more concise, adjective-based alternative.
based on qualifications
Focuses specifically on the required skills and achievements.
conditional on achievement
Focuses on accomplishments rather than inherent qualities.
dependent on competence
Emphasizes demonstrated ability and skill.
performance-dependent
Directly links the outcome to how well someone performs.
subject to capability
Highlights the potential for something to be influenced by one's capacity.
contingent on aptitude
Stresses the natural talent or learned ability.
predicated on excellence
Suggests a high standard of quality is necessary.
qualification-driven
Highlights that only qualified individuals drive the process.
skill-assessed
Emphasizes the evaluation of skills as a key factor.
FAQs
How can I use "conditional on merit" in a sentence?
Use "conditional on merit" to indicate that something is dependent on someone's skills, achievements, or qualities. For example, "The promotion is "conditional on merit", ensuring the most qualified candidate is selected".
What are some alternatives to "conditional on merit"?
Alternatives include "based on qualifications", "dependent on competence", or "merit-based", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of worthiness.
Is "conditional on merit" formal or informal?
"Conditional on merit" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase suitable for professional, academic, and news-related contexts.
Which is more appropriate, "conditional on merit" or "based on merit"?
Both "conditional on merit" and "based on merit" are correct and often interchangeable. "Based on merit" might be slightly more common, but "conditional on merit" emphasizes the dependency aspect more strongly.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested